MCS: Lancashire area group

Right: Photograph of a queen scallop (also known as queenie or frill) Aequipecten opercularis (L.) by Ron Crosby.

Both valves of the Queen scallop shell are convex (bow outwards), distinguishing it from the king or great scallop. When disturbed they will often swim clumsily away - rather like a set of false teeth. This is a great escape mechanism from their natural predators - starfish.